Ben Weston (Days of Our Lives)
Ben Weston | |||||||||||||
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Days of Our Lives character | |||||||||||||
Portrayed by |
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Duration | 2014–2023 | ||||||||||||
First appearance | February 26, 2014 | ||||||||||||
Last appearance | March 24, 2023 | ||||||||||||
Classification | Former; regular | ||||||||||||
Created by | Gary Tomlin and Christopher Whitesell | ||||||||||||
Introduced by |
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Spin-off appearances | Days of Our Lives: Beyond Salem (2021–2022) | ||||||||||||
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Ben Weston is a fictional character from Days of Our Lives, an American soap opera on the NBC network, most notably portrayed by Robert Scott Wilson. The role was originated by Justin Gaston in 2014, as Ben Rogers, when the character was introduced as the new love interest of Abigail Deveraux (Kate Mansi), and was later revealed to be the estranged brother of Jordan Ridgeway (Chrishell Stause).
Soon after, Wilson was hired as a recast and the writers began exploring the character's dark past with the introduction of his abusive criminal father
Robert Scott Wilson vacated the role in late 2015 and would reprise the role for multiple guest stints before returning to the show as a series regular on June 1, 2018. Upon his return, head writer Ron Carlivati began to redeem the character through his friendship and eventual romance with Ciara Brady (Victoria Konefal), whom he later married and had a son with.
Storylines
Ben (
In April 2016, Ben breaks into the DiMera mansion and he is shocked when Abigail professes her love for him. When Ben lets his guard down, Abigail stabs him and knocks him out. Ben wakes up tied to the bed and a deranged Abigail sets him on fire. Chad arrives just in time to put the fire out but Ben's legs are severely burned. The police take Ben into custody and district attorney Justin Kiriakis (Wally Kurth) concludes that Ben was sane enough to escape the hospital, and Ben is sent to prison instead of back to the mental hospital.
In September 2017, Ben crashes Chad and Abigail's double wedding with Sonny Kiriakis (Freddie Smith) and Paul Narita (Christopher Sean) to announce that Sonny's husband Will (Chandler Massey) is still alive. Ben tells Marlena that Clyde told him Will is alive. Later, Will's mother Sami Brady (Alison Sweeney) convinces Ben to reenact Will's "murder" to cure his amnesia. However, Ben can't bring himself to hurt Will again and Sami has him locked away again.[1]
In June 2018, Marlena visits Ben and questions his mental state as he is due to be released from the sanitarium. Ben says it was the incident with Sami and Will that caused his break through. Ben promises to make amends for the pain he caused.
Development
Casting and creation
In the summer of 2013
During the week of April 7, 2014, rumors circulated that Gaston had been replaced by actor
In a November 2020 interview with
Characterization
Personality
The original casting call described Ben as being in his early to mid 20s, a “gorgeous, Caucasian, country boy.” He is supposed to be Midwestern or Southern. The casting notice also described Ben as “utterly charming” due to his “honest sincere approach to life and love.” The producers looked for actors with a musical background.
Backstory
Wilson later admitted that he didn't know much about the character when he assumed the role of Ben. "[The producers] really only gave me what I needed to know to make it real and understandable to me."[20] Wilson revealed that the producers gave him a lot "creative control" when it came to his character's backstory.[19] Wilson revealed that he and Ben share a similar background because he too comes "from humble beginnings."[14] Ben is born Oliver "Ollie" Weston on March 13, 1989 in the small city of Poplar Bluff, Missouri.[21][22] Wilson stated, "Ben has pretty much always been broke" and he's never experienced any real "stability in his life."[20] "I had to come up with my own backstory for things to work for me as the story went further" the actor explained.[20] Wilson said of his character that "Ben has lived a crazy life.[13] Ben hopes to make a home for himself by settling in the same town as his sister Jordan. Though Ben is the younger of the siblings, he has "stepped up" for Jordan and tries to be a father figure for her and protect her as payback for her raising him.[23] However, Ben's plans are threatened by the arrival of his father, Clyde Weston. Ben "very wary of Clyde" because he only has bad memories of him.[20] While Clyde and Ben want the same thing, to build a father-son relationship, Clyde's schemes constantly undermines any progress they make.[24]
Relationship with Abigail
The character is paired with Abigail Deveraux in a romantic storyline. Wilson explained that Abigail is the first girl to make Ben want to "settle down" and have a stable relationship. "It's all really new to him."[19] Ben's secret past jeopardizes his budding romance with Abigail because "He's not yet ready to tell her... but if everything is good at the end of the tunnel" Ben will come clean.[20] Wilson formed a close bond with his costar Mansi which he said helped with their onscreen chemistry. Ben doesn't hold Abigail's past against her because "Everybody's got baggage" Wilson said. Ben can understand and identity with Abby having a trouble past "because he's far from perfect himself."[23] Abby and Ben's new romance is also threatened by return of her ex-boyfriend Chad DiMera. Abigail is forced to choose between staying faithful to Ben and protecting him from a potential prison stint when he gets arrested for assaulting Chad.[25] After an affair with Chad, which Ben witnesses, Abigail ends up pregnant and is unsure of her baby's paternity.[26][27][28][29] Ben is so desperate to make a better life for himself that he willingly overlooks Abigail's cheating. "That's always in the back of Ben's head" Wilson stated. So, Ben is faced with the task of burying those feelings and staying focused on "his ultimate goal of having a family and becoming stable." He continued, "Abigail is the puzzle piece that will make all of that possible." Wilson further stated that this is the first relationship where Ben has "found something to invest in" and he is afraid to lose that so when he learns she is pregnant, Ben holds on tighter. However, "it's eating him alive" Wilson said of Abigail seemingly being drawn to Chad. But, he finds comfort in Abby's reassurances which keep him grounded in the "reality that he knows." Wilson said he'd advise his character to leave Abigail and the town of Salem behind but admitted "Love makes you do wild stuff."[24]
The Necktie killer (2015)
I ran with it because I got what I wanted: a chance to play Ben in a total arc, taking him from one set of character traits to a completely different type of person. From an acting standpoint it was very rewarding. It was great to have some real, tangible information about Ben's backstory, and seeing the character given more depth, no matter what direction it took.
In April 2015, during an interview for Soapcentral.com, Wilson said that viewers will "learn more about Ben in the next six months." The actor continued, "It's a whole other side of Ben, and I'm really excited to kind of unravel it."[31] Wilson welcomed the shift in the direction of his character. "I was getting bored out of my mind. So thank God. It's time for the cycle to change." Wilson admitted that Ben develops "more of a wild streak than ever."[31]
In the summer of 2015,
He said of the character change, "It's really night and day" from the Ben viewers had come to know.[24] Wilson relished in portraying the "bad guy." The actor was very grateful because "they really did write for Ben" and that allowed him to take a lot of "chances and risks." He continued, "I played things that I had never done."[30] In an interview with Michael Fairman from On-Air On-Soaps, Wilson revealed that when the story started filming, even he was not aware that Ben was the killer. Ben dumps the evidence in the river believing he has covered his tracks. The scenes were filmed in one take and Wilson later revealed that he wanted to re-shoot the scenes because he knew the fans wouldn't miss a beat and would notice that there was air in the bag – which would keep it from sinking. Ben is able to "keep his game face on" in public, until he is alone and "can kind of revel in what has happened." In private, Ben takes "deep breathes, and try to regain his composure."[34]
Victims
The killer's first victim is Serena Mason, played by Melissa Archer, who had recently announced her departure from the series. Serena is found strangled to death and Chad is implicated as a suspect because of their drunken confrontation the night before.[37] Less than a month later, the killer claims another victim when Paige Larson (True O'Brien) is strangled to death with a red necktie.[38] Chad once again appears to be the prime suspect as he had been harassing Paige who had witnessed the altercation with Serena. Following Paige's murder, there was immediate speculation that Ben was framing Chad or that Clyde had framed Chad on Ben's behalf.[39][40] On the episode that aired on September 24, 2015, the killer tries and fails to kill one of the show's most iconic characters, Marlena Evans, portrayed by veteran actress Deidre Hall.[33] Wilson later admitted that he wasn't too enthused about Ben's choice of victims, specifically O'Brien's character. "That one got me the most because True is so young" Wilson explained.[30]
During the interview with Fairman, Wilson confirmed that Ben would take more lives. "There is a lot more to this story" he teased. "The body count will rise" he declared.[34] On the episode which aired on October 9, 2015, Ben would claim a third, and most significant victim – Will Horton (Guy Wilson) as he discovers Ben is the killer.[41] Until Will, Ben is "somebody who doesn't know what he's doing." It is Will's death that forces Ben to face the reality of his actions.[35] Before the episode aired, Wilson identified Will's murder as the turning point for Ben: "That’s the full change for him. When that happens, then he will be aware of everything that is happening in real time, rather than playing this game where he is thinking he is doing something right, when it’s not."[34]
Motives and psychosis
The reveal episode also featured scenes in which Ben changes his mind about leaving town with Abigail when he learns there is an APB out for Chad. Ben feels a sense of "closure" hinting at his motives. According to Wilson, Ben's actions stem from love, "as tragic as it all is. It's done out of love, but unfortunately he is going insane." Ben who has "constantly" buried his feelings about Abigail's betrayal has reached the end of his rope. Dealing with Abigail's betrayal is such a new experience for Ben because he's never really had anything to lose. "Everything Ben does is to set Chad up" Wilson stated. Ben never intends to hurt anyone. Ben sees his victims as "chess pieces" in a much bigger game – they will help him hold onto the life he has made for himself. As far as Ben is concerned, he is doing the "right thing."[34]
The writers took it a step further in the development of the story by portraying Ben as having suffered some sort of psychological break creating two distinct personalities for himself.[42] The Ben viewers meet in 2014 is the "nice guy" who is just a bartender and Abigail's boyfriend. He "takes the hand of the little princess [Abigail] of Salem." But then, there is "Benjamin" who experiences "blackouts" and blames Chad for his behavior. From Ben's perspective, Chad is responsible for the murders.[34] Though Wilson insisted that Ben does not have a split personality, "Benjamin is another part of Ben's personality that acted as his protector." To help prepare for his portrayal of Ben, Wilson did some research with similar characters. He studied Anthony Perkins portrayal of Norman Bates in the 1960 film Psycho as well as Edward Norton's character in the 1996 film Primal Fear – who deals with a split personality. Wilson also watched several documentaries about the lives of serial killers. "If somebody were to see my Netflix queue during that time they probably would have asked, 'What's up with this guy?'" he said jokingly. However, in his research, Wilson recognized that Ben becoming a killer was entirely possible. "The writers tapped into Ben's childhood, when he suffered abuse. That was the place where a lot of evil was rooted."[42] Tapping into that part of his psyche, "worked for me as an actor" Wilson explained. "It is truly a great experience to go through as an actor, and weird at the same time."[34]
Departure (2015)
While he was initially excited about the storyline, Wilson knew there was a strong possibility that once the story wrapped, he could be out of a job.[34] As the serial killer story was set to climax in the fall, Soaps SheKnows reported that Wilson would likely vacate the role of Ben Weston when the story wrapped. However, neither Wilson nor the producers would comment on the actor's status with the series.[43] Wilson intentionally played coy during another interview in November 2015. When asked if he was coming or going, the actor "It's a little bit of both. Maybe he's gone and then he's back and then he's gone. Maybe he's just among us. Maybe he's something that you can't get rid of."[36] Wilson seemingly vacated the role on December 8, 2015, when Ben goes to prison.[44] By the time of his departure, Wilson felt that Ben had completed his arc.[45] Despite reports that Wilson was done with the series, the actor continued posting pictures on social media of himself on the set.[44]
Returns (2016–2017)
In January 2016 it was announced that Wilson would reprise his role as Ben. The actor reappeared onscreen on March 11.[46] Wilson revealed that Albert Alarr informed him toward the end of his first arc of the plans to bring the character back. However, this is a "new chapter" for Ben. "This is now a fresh arc for myself and what I make for Ben." According to Wilson, Ben returns because he misses Salem, having found a home for himself there and "because he wants to know what's going on" and he somehow sees beyond what he has done.[45] As Abigail prepares to marry Chad, it is reported that Ben has escaped the mental hospital. However, when Abby sees Ben at her wedding, he appears to be a figment of her imagination.[47] Chad and JJ orchestrate a plan to lure Ben out of hiding, using Abigail as bait. However, Abigail's hallucinations get worse as the possibility that Ben is looming becomes even more real.[48]
During the week of April 11, 2016, Ben and Abigail come face to face. "It's the real deal and not a figment of Abigail's imagination" Wilson confirmed. At that point, it is a game of cat and mouse.[49] The confrontation culminates with Ben to a bed and Abigail setting him on fire, as he had previously done to her and Chad. Wilson's costar Kate Mansi told Soap Opera Digest about filming the scenes. "From the minute we arrived on set, Robert and I felt the weight of that encounter" the actress explained. The actors didn't even rehearse together as usual. The taping was delayed due to a lighting problem so they took advantage of the downtime and "We didn't take our eyes off each other" allowing for the tension to build. The actors then utilized the remainder of the time to run through their scenes, without any dialogue. When the lighting situation was fixed, "Robert and I just let ourselves get out of the way and went for the ride without any hesitation."[50] Wilson concluded his run with the series on June 24, 2016.[51] The return also helped facilitate Kate Mansi's departure from the series.[52] "I'm so grateful to have been a part of her last episode" Wilson said.[51]
In September 2017, it was announced the Wilson was set to reprise his role in late September, under new head writer Ron Carlivati. Wilson was very enthusiastic about the return. "I couldn't have asked for a better entrance back to Salem – when no one sees it coming."[53] Just about everyone in town has converged on the church for a double wedding "and then I got to swing the church doors open and drop a bomb" the actor explained to Soap Opera Digest.[54] Ben announces to a packed room that Will Horton is alive upsetting the event. For Ben, this is "great news." Ben considered Will to be a friend so "Ben is trying to clear his conscience, and hopefully, clear his name as well." However, Ben has more than one agenda and sees it as a chance to stick it to those who have wronged him because he blames the people of Salem for turning him into what he has become. Ben takes pleasure in taunting everyone about Will being alive, which upsets Will's closest relatives. However, Ben cannot produce Will. "That's part of the mystery. He's hoping Will can be found."[55]
Wilson was contacted in the spring of 2017 about returning to the series. The producers told him a little bit about the story, stating: "It sounded like really great stuff, and they were correct. I had a blast." While he was welcomed back, a lot had changed with the serial. "In a short amount of time, they really spread Ben out, and he interacts with a lot of different characters," Wilson said, while also stating he was definitely open to another return in the future.[54] Wilson wrapped his stint on November 30, 2017, when Ben is sent back to the mental institution.[56]
Reintroduction and redemption
I thought he was fascinating character and wondered about his redemption and the possibility of a new lease on life. Obviously he's a polarizing person who affects so many other characters, so the situation that's being set up is that the whole town is going to be united against him.
Ron Carlivati, Soap Opera Digest (2018)[57]
In January 2018, Wilson revealed that he had visited the set which led to rumors of another return.[58] Later, actress Denice Duff announced that she would also reprise her role as midwife Wendy Taylor, which fueled speculation. Soaps.com stated that Duff would reappear alongside Wilson in May 2018.[59] On April 26, 2018, Soap Opera Digest announced that Wilson signed a new contract and would return as a series regular. "I'm really grateful," Wilson said to in a statement to the magazine. "I love what Ron [Carlivati, head writer] and the whole team has been doing with him thus far, so I'm really excited to see where they take him after this."[60] Wilson credited his co-star Deidre Hall (Marlena) with being partly responsible for his return. "She kind of rallied for me be back there" he said. "After our scenes, she'd say, 'Get this kid a contract.'"[17]
Wilson said "You can get caught in that stagnant place on shows sometimes and it's nice to come back and revamp a storyline or maybe create something new and just be inspired. We've got a good thing going, so I think that's why I'll be sticking around a little bit longer."[61] Wilson saw the return as a chance to grow the character as well as "work my own instrument a little bit more." While there would obviously be opposition from other characters on the canvas, "there's also maybe some people that can hear his side of the story now and might believe in [Ben] a little bit more."[61] In an article for Soap Hub, Janet Di Lauro questioned exactly how the character could be integrated into the canvas, despite his past. "It's time for a magical rewrite or convoluted explanation," she said.[62]
In an interview with Michael Maloney for TV Insider, Wilson said "The show has come up with a phenomenal way to bring Ben full circle and putting him in a different light without losing his edge. They're writing the balance between vulnerability and danger."[17] Wilson said to Soap Hub that maintaining the character's edge is the "trough line for everything." The writing leaves one wondering if, "at any moment" could Ben "slip back into that dangerous mental space."[63] The writers paired Wilson with Deidre Hall's character, resident shrink, Marlena Evans, as she examines his mental stability upon hearing the news that he is rehabilitated.[64] Laurisa from Soapcentral.com argued that the extreme circumstances of the parallel plot in which Abigail avoided prison after killing someone due to a psychotic break made Ben's return more plausible. "A psychiatrist has deemed him sane, which the show can't shoot down in a light of Abigail's storyline."[65] Wilson described Marlena as the "gatekeeper to get Ben back into the world of Salem." Of Ben's state of mind, Wilson said "He had a chance to find himself, do some heavy reading and find God, maybe. He is medicated. He has been cleared and deemed sane. And he's okay."[63]
Ben's got his baggage and his demons, and he's such a layered character, and I'm finding new colors, and it's really been fun. I enjoy going to work every day. I'm getting some really gritty work, and that's all you can ask for, good work.
Robert Scott Wilson, Boston Herald (2018)[66]
Wilson revealed that Ben would interact with many of the characters he shared history with in addition to new faces. One of those new faces would be Victoria Konefal who played legacy character Ciara Brady.[17] "Well he needs somebody to support him" the actor stated.[67] Even with support from Marlena and Ciara, "it's a struggle for him" Wilson stated. Ben chooses to return to Salem "because he wants to make amends.… And not everybody wants that." Ben is "developing a sense of worth."[63] In an interview with the Boston Herald, Wilson said Ben is "trying to be a better person. It's going to get uglier before it gets prettier, and that's my favorite part." Wilson appreciated that the pacing: "They've done a great job telling this story, of not rushing it or brushing anything under the rug. There isn't an easy road to redemption, and this audience will see the struggle for Ben to prove himself."[66] Within 2 months, Janet Di Lauro said the show had successfully made Ben an "anti-hero" with three plot points: "Marlena's blessing," his saving Ciara's life, and most significantly, Ben keeping his distance from Abigail. "The old Ben would have been on her doorstep wreaking havoc immediately. The new Ben has clearly moved on, because he is a healed man, and one DAYS has somehow transformed into an anti-hero."[68]
Reception
General
In response to the original casting call looking for attractive actors, Luke Kerr said, "Finding beautiful actors is all well and good, but please make sure they can act before letting them sign on the dotted line. "
In 2020, Charlie Mason from
Serial killer
While the character was initially not well received, the shocking serial killer plot and Wilson's portrayal led to Ben becoming a fan favorite. One blog christened the character with the nickname "Batty Ben" while TVSource Magazine hailed Ben as "The sexiest serial killer in soap history." Wilson received critical acclaim in the soap press and many were quite surprised the actor did not receive
Michael Maloney described becoming a soap serial killer as "a thankless role" but credited Wilson's "compelling performances" with garnering "rave reviews."[76] Jamey Giddens of Daytime Confidential initially praised the serial killer storyline and said "The latest in a long line of DAYS serial killers is giving the show back its life" by getting rid of the "nonessential characters" like Serena and Paige. "Praise Soap Jesus" Giddens exclaimed. Ironically, Giddens hoped the killer's next victims would be Ben and Clyde Weston.[77] Michael Fairman of On-Air On-Soaps praised the scenes in which Ben was revealed to be the serial killer.[33] Soap Central's Kambra Clifford described the plot twist as "hellish" and "devilishly dark."[36] Soap Shows described Wilson's official confirmation of Ben as the serial killer as a "spoilers reveal like no other."[78] Soap Shows christened the character with the nickname "Batty Ben" and said "he's become the creepiest Salem man around." The blog further commented that "Robert Scott Wilson appears to be having a blast playing an on-the-edge psycho who could flip at any moment."[79] Donald of Canyon News said the storyline and character reignited his interest in the soap. Wilson "played Ben with devious perfection."[80] Initially, many viewers responded on social media and message boards in denial as many refused to believe that Ben was the killer.[34]
DAYS Decimates Will Horton! Should Ben Have Brutally Murdered This Once Legacy Character?
Michael Fairman,
However, Ben's third victim in Will Horton would stir up quite a bit of controversy with many questioning the decision to kill off such an important character. Michael Fairman described the fans as having "mixed-emotions" on social media.[41] Viewer emotions over Will's murder ranged from "utterly shocked and heartbroken" to "outraged." Some viewers described the character's death as "unnecessary" while others "could not stop crying" and others believed the character "deserved better" and the decision made some "sick."[81] Days superstar Alison Sweeney who played Will's mother Sami even voiced her own anger over the decision to kill the character.[41] Hope Campbell commented on the manner in which Will died at Ben's hands: "Will was an integral part of the show, and we watched him die in a horrific manner from his own point of view." Campbell praised the production of the scenes and said "seeing the screen fade to black as Will faded with his last breath sent chills up our spines and not something we remember seeing often on a soap." However, she described the situation as "over-the-top" and said the manner in which Ben transported the corpse "added another layer of creepiness we were not looking for."[82]
Despite the controversy that stemmed from Will's murder, Wilson received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Ben. Michael Fairman who praised the story as a "deeply affection and riveting arc" said "Wilson owned every second of Ben's troubled inner life and turmoil."[83] Soap Opera Digest made the climax it's "Editor's Choice" and praised Wilson and his co-stars for making the "stakes feel higher" and "infusing the action with blistering intensity." The magazine said "Wilson was mesmerizing as his character slipped in and out of lucidity. Wilson expertly highlighted Ben's struggle to stay cognizant as the manic part of his personality threatened complete dominance."[84] On-Air On-Soaps deemed the plot twist as the "Most Shocking Storyline" for the year 2015. The website also praised Ben as the "Most Revived Character" and Wilson as one of the "Best" supporting actors.[85] Soap Opera Digest further praised the character's "revitalization" describing Ben as a "ho-hum character whose appeal increased as Wilson plumbed the depths of his alter ego's insanity."[84] Hope Campbell of Soap Hub noted that some fans suspected Ben had been faking his break from reality.[86]
Wilson's omission from the Daytime Emmy pre-nominations invoked a strong outcry from fans on social media.[45] On-Air On-Soaps said Wilson's omission from the nominees was one of the more noticeable ones.[87] Fame10 included Wilson on its 2016 list of "Most Shocking Soap Opera Emmy Snubs." Dorathy Gass declared Wilson's omission was "sheer craziness!" She hoped Wilson would get the well-deserved the Supporting Actor nomination in 2017.[88] Hollie Deese of Soaps.com said Wilson's exclusion was a "glaring oversight" because "I think he took it all this year, hands down." Deese hailed Wilson as one of the "top young actors in the genre."[89]
Return stints
Hope Campbell of Soap Hub said Wilson's 2016 return would surely "shake things up" just in time for February Sweeps.
When Wilson reprised his role in 2017, Ryan White-Nobles excitedly declared "The sexiest serial killer in soap history is returning to Days of our Lives!"
Reintroduction (2018)
I'd be hard pressed to think of an actor who grew as quickly and as far as he did during Ben's brief time on the show. He's easily part of my top ten villain performances of all time on DAYS. So, I'm never opposed to seeing him on my screen again.
Laurisa, Soapcentral.com[65]
Diane Brounstein of Soap Hub described Ben's 2018 reintroduction as a "smart move." She continued, "While the move may seem like a hard one to pull off […] there's no denying that the actor is mesmerizing to watch."[100] On-Air On-Soaps said "You can never get enough of ole’ Ben Weston in your life now can you?" Michael Fairman said "it will be intriguiging to see just how Ben is integrated back into the canvas" with Ron Carlivati as head writer.[101] Kambra Clifford of Soapcentral.com described the announcement as "killer news."[102] Canyon News said the storyline would cause "fireworks galore."[80] Soap Opera Spy said "Even though Ben has caused quite a lot of trouble in Salem, there’s no denying that fans still tune in to see him."[103] However, not everyone was excited about the character's reintroduction. Jack Ori of TV Fanatic said "I know a lot of people are fans of Batty Ben, but I'm not one of them. … I don't see him as redeemable."[104] Ori continued that "The idea of Ben being so easily redeemed irks me."[105] Ori said the "rushed nature" of Ben's return was "annoying." Christine Orlando said that while she appreciated Wilson's portrayal, "I'm not really sure what purpose it serves to bring Ben back to Salem."[106] While she was excited for the return, Laurisa of Soapcentral.com said "My biggest issue with reformed Ben is that [Robert Scott Wilson] does such a superb job of playing the villain. I'm not so sure I want to see him do anything else."[65] Soap Opera Digest described the character's reintroduction as "misguided" and said "The idea of [Ben] mingling with the loved ones of his victims is off-putting." While the magazine agreed that keeping "Ben on canvas a villain" could generate "interesting" plots, "trying to transform him into a romantic leading man is a big stretch."[107]
References
- American Media, Inc.: 15. December 4, 2017.
- ^ "DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Ben Wants To Be A Good Man! Will He Find Redemption, Or Does He Have Everyone Fooled?". Michael Fairman TV. June 3, 2018. Retrieved June 3, 2018.
- ^ Fairman, Michael (June 8, 2018). "Are DAYS Ben and Ciara Primed To Be The Hottest New Couple On The Soaps?". Michael Fairman TV. Retrieved June 9, 2018.
- ^ "Ben Unravels!". News. ABC Soaps In Depth. 22 (29). Bauer Media Group: 7. July 16, 2018.
- American Media, Inc.: 7. July 16, 2018.
- ^ American Media, Inc.June 5, 2013. Retrieved April 14, 2014.
- ^ Lewis, Errol (February 7, 2014). "Country Music Singer/Actor Justin Gaston Joins 'Days of our Lives' In Contract Role". Soap Opera Network. Retrieved April 14, 2014.
- ^ Lewis, Errol (April 14, 2014). "'The Price is Right' for Former 'AMC' Star Robert Scott Wilson; Actor Joins 'DAYS' Cast". Soap Opera Network. Retrieved April 15, 2014.
- American Media, Inc.April 14, 2014. Retrieved April 14, 2014.
- ^ "AMC Hunk Takes Over At DAYS!". ABC Soaps In Depth. April 15, 2014. Retrieved April 15, 2014.
- ^ "Rob Scott Wilson Messages Fans Regarding New 'DAYS' Role, His Final 'The Price Is Right' Episodes and Boston Marathon Bombing". Soap Opera Network. April 15, 2014. Retrieved April 15, 2014.
- ^ Lewis, Errol (May 4, 2014). "Robert Scott Wilson's 'DAYS' Debut Revealed". Soap Opera Network. Retrieved May 5, 2014.
- ^ American Media, Inc.: 4–5. June 2, 2014.
- ^ American Media, Inc.: 54–57.
- ^ Michael Fairman Channel. "Cady McClain & Rob Scott Wilson Interview – Days of Our Lives & All My Children". YouTube. United States.
- ^ Kroll, Dan J (June 7, 2013). "Days of our Lives casting: Ben and Sabrina". Soap Central. Retrieved April 14, 2014.
- ^ a b c d e Maloney, Michael (May 24, 2018). "'Days of Our Lives' Star Robert Scott Wilson on Ben's Return: 'I'm Very Grateful They Didn't Make Me a Twin'". TV Insider. TVGM Holdings, LLC. Retrieved May 24, 2018.
- ^ Fairman, Michael (July 17, 2014). "DAYS Rob Scott Wilson On Taking On The Role Of Ben, Chrishell Stause & Missing His AMC Peeps!". On-Air On-Soaps. Retrieved July 19, 2014.
- ^ a b c Clifford, Kambra (September 18, 2014). "CENTER STAGE: 'DAYS Robert Scott Wilson Opens Up About Ben's Explosive Past!". Soap Opera Network. Retrieved April 9, 2015.
- ^ ABC Soaps in Depth. Bauer Media Group: 74–77.
- ^ Ron Carlivati (Head writer); Scott McKinsey (Director); Joanna Cohen (Script writer) (June 28, 2018). Days of Our Lives. Season 52. NBC.
- ^ a b "10 Worst Soap Opera Storylines of 2014". Daytime Confidential. Confidential Media, Inc. (SAY Media). December 29, 2014. Retrieved October 9, 2015.
- ^ CBS Soaps in Depth. Bauer Media Group: 84–87.
- ^ CBS Soaps in Depth. Bauer Media Group: 74–77.
- ^ Kerr, Luke (February 24, 2015). "Chad Proves EJ Wasn't The Only DiMera Capable of Making Indecent Proposals on Days of Our Lives (VIDEO)". Daytime Confidential. Confidential Media, Inc. (SAY Media). Retrieved October 10, 2015.
- ^ Kerr, Luke (July 6, 2015). "Is Abby Pregnant on Days of Our Lives? (PROMO)". Daytime Confidential. Confidential Media, Inc. (SAY Media). Retrieved October 11, 2015.
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External links
- "Ben Weston". About DAYS: Who's Who in Salem. Soapcentral.com. Retrieved October 8, 2017.
- Eades, Chris (September 29, 2017). "Who is Ben on DAYS OF OUR LIVES? — Here's Everything You Need to Know!". Soaps In Depth. Bauer Media Group. Retrieved October 6, 2017.